Orbital chairman Bourke dies

The chairman of Balcatta-based engine technology developer Orbital Corporation Ltd, Don Bourke, has died after a long illness, the company announced late yesterday.

Mr Bourke, appointed to the role in 2003, had also served as chairman of Australian Technology Group Ltd, Compudigm International Ltd and Olex Holdings Ltd.

He had also served on the boards of Crown Casino Ltd and BIL (Australia Holdings) Ltd as well as being a Councillor of the National Library of Australia.

The staff at WA Business News would like to pass on their condolences to Mr Bourke's family.

The full text of an announcement from Orbital is pasted below

PERTH, AUSTRALIA: Orbital Corporation Limited is sad to announce that Don Bourke the Chairman of the Board of Directors passed away early this morning.

Mr. Bourke had been a Director and Chairman at Orbital since August 2003 and during that time had assisted in the significant re-structure of the company which has seen the company return to profitability. The directors and executives express their sincere appreciation of Mr. Bourke's significant contribution and leadership.

Mr. Bourke had a long and distinguished career across many industries. He had extensive business experience and has been a Director of Crown Casino Limited and BIL (Australia Holdings) Ltd as well as a Councillor of the National Library of Australia. For a number of years, Mr. Bourke was the Finance Director of Consolidated Press Holdings Limited. Early in his career, Mr. Bourke gained significant experience in the automotive industry, occupying various finance and senior management positions with Ford Australia during almost eighteen years with that company.

Orbital's Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Rod Houston said that Mr. Bourke had been ill for some time but had continued to provide valuable guidance and stewardship.

"Don had been a pillar of strength and experience for the company over the last four years, and he spent considerable time assisting me personally when I took on the role of CEO" said Dr. Houston. "The thoughts and prayers of the board and management are with Don's family at this sad time."

Succession planning is in place and an announcement will be made next week after the August Board meeting.